Citizens, NGOs join hands to clear seemai karuvelam at Korattur lake
Residents and NGOs in Chennai have launched an initiative to remove invasive Prosopis juliflora vegetation from Korattur Lake. Despite these restoration efforts, the community continues to face challenges regarding untreated sewage pollution and the need for official recognition as a bird sanctuary.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing struggle between urban development, environmental conservation, and the failure of local authorities to enforce pollution control mandates.
A portion of the long-neglected Korattur Lake is set to get a facelift as residents and non-government organisations have collaborated to remove invasive vegetation, Prosopis juliflora (seemai karuvelam) since Monday (July 13, 2026).
Belonging to a chain of water bodies that drain into Retteri, the Korattur lake remains a significant source of groundwater recharge and haven for resident and migratory birds.
In a bid to improve the lake environment, Korattur Aeri Pathukappu Makkal Iyakkam (KAPMI), a citizens’ movement voicing for the lake restoration, joined hands Exnora International and residents to remove invasive vegetation from along the lake near Karukku. The initiative follows the Madras High Court directive to eradicate invasive species and approval from the Chennai Collectorate, said residents.
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